Protaprilia: All you need to know about the Greek version of April Fools’ Day

·

April Fools’ Day — on April 1 each year — has been celebrated for several centuries by different cultures. Traditions include playing hoaxes or practical jokes on others, often yelling “April Fools!” at the end to clue in the subject of the April Fools’ Day prank.

While its exact history and origins are shrouded in mystery, the embrace of April Fools’ Day jokes by the media and major brands has ensured the unofficial holiday’s long life.

Origins of April Fools Day:

There are two scenarios regarding the origins of April Fools’ Day. One version says the tradition originates with the Celts. The Celtic fishing season begun on April 1st but during that period, there were not that many fish, leading the fishermen to lie about the amount of fish that they caught.

Another, more historically acceptable version regarding the origins of April Fools day, dates back to 1582 when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. This switch meant New Year’s would be celebrated on January 1st instead of April 1st. The people of France were divided in two – with some opposing the change and continuing with the celebration on April 1st, while others accepted the change but continued to send New Year’s presents on April 1st as a tease.

April Fools Day in Greece:

Since Greece belongs to Europe, the April Fools tradition spread throughout the country as well, with a slightly different version.

The basic idea was that Greeks started telling small, innocent lies on April 1st, thinking that whoever manages to trick the “victim,” will have luck along his/her side for the rest of the year.

In other parts, it is believed that the person who plays the trick, will have good crops.

In addition, if it rains on April Fools’ Day, in some parts in Greece, the water is believed to have healing powers.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

‘I will never forget you’: Emotional farewell for Greek Consul General in Sydney

An emotional Greek Consul General Yannis Mallikourtis delivered his farewell speech on Monday evening at Business Sydney’s Event Centre.

Adelaide’s St Sophrony Parish raises funds for hall construction

The newly established St Sophrony of Essex parish in Hectorville, Adelaide, held its first official fundraising dinner on Sunday, June 29.

From homelessness to homeowner: Kostas Papadimitropoulos shares his inspirational story

Melbourne man Kostas Papadimitropoulos has turned his life around after being scammed out of his life savings and forced to live in his car.

Sydney Dance Company shines at Athens Epidaurus Festival with ‘Impermanence’

The Sydney Dance Company captivated a crowd of 5,000 at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus last week, performing 'Impermanence.'

Former ATO worker Paraskevi Vula Danassis convicted in $2 billion GST scam

Former Australian Taxation Office employee Paraskevi Vula Danassis has been convicted over her role in a $2 billion GST fraud scheme.

You May Also Like

Greek Community Cup to return to Melbourne this month

The Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) is once again proud to announce the launch of the 2024 Greek Community Cup.

Greek Orthodox Community of SA call for the Parthenon Marbles to be returned to Greece

The Greek Orthodox Community of South Australia have called for the Parthenon Marbles to be returned to their rightful place in Greece.

Kyrgios hits 11 aces in ATP Cup victory against UK tennis player Cameron Norrie

Nick Kyrgios thanked the crowd for making their way to Ken Rosewall Arena "so early" after sweeping aside Cameron Norrie to give Australia a 1-0 lead in their quarter-final.